Oldham set up testing encounter for U’s

The U’s came even closer when Szmodics’ sliding effort rattled the inside of the post.

Joe Edwards went close for Colchester with a dipping effort early in the second half and Darren Ambrose side-footed wide of the target from a good position from Macauley Bonne’s cutback, soon after.

For a full preview of the U’s game with Oldham tonight, see Tuesday’s Daily Gazette.

But although ex-West Ham man Moncur had looked angry and upset with that decision, he did shake hands with manager Tony Humes as he passed the dug-out.

It was a very subdued opening from both sides, although Oldham looked comfortable on the ball following their 1-0 home win over near-neighbours Fleetwood last Saturday.

Lee Croft (Oldham Athletic) wins a free kick on the right wing.

After the break, Sammie Szmodics nearly gave Colchester the lead with a shot that rebounded off a post and at the other end, Forte’s shot was saved by Parish who then doubled up by stopping Lee Croft’s goal-bound effort.

Darren Ambrose keeps his place in the team, while George Elokobi again has to settle for a place on the bench.

But he travelled to Peterborough United with the rest of the Colchester squad last weekend and was an unused substitute in the U’s 2-1 defeat.

“He’ll be involved but he probably needs a bit more match time”.